Backpacks, boats and hiking boots are necessary for three outings planned this weekend by three organizations committed to the great outdoors. Here’s a preview provided by Outdoor Chattanooga.
* Overnight backpack: Tennessee Wild will continue its series of free hikes in the Cherokee National Forest with a 15-mile overnight introduction to backpacking Saturday and Sunday. Hikers will traverse the Appalachian Trail and Big Laurel Branch Wilderness. Participants should be physically prepared to hike at least seven miles each day, carrying 30 to 40 pounds, and be equipped to camp in a backcountry environment. Team leader is Jeff Hunter, who can be reached at jeff@safc.org or 423-322-7866. To learn more, visit http://tnwild.org/get_involved/outings.
* Boat paddle: Tennessee Valley Canoe Club will host a Bring Your Own Boat Paddle at 10 a.m. Saturday on Battle Creek near South Pittsburg, Tenn., and the Alabama border. Organizers describe Battle Creek as a “great little creek that many paddlers in the area have not explored.” Participants can expect a three-hour paddle and no shuttle. For details and directions, e-mail trip leader Eric Fleming at 598eric@gmail.com by 4 p.m. today. Find out more at www.tvccpaddler.com.
* Day hike: The Cherokee Group of the Sierra Club will host a day hike on the Signal Point section of the Cumberland Trail at 11 a.m. Saturday, starting at Point Park on Signal Mountain. The trail features spectacular views of the Tennessee River Gorge. Participants should bring water and lunch, and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. For more information, contact outings chairman Jeremy Tallman-Gazaway at gazawaypainting@gmail.com or 423-619-6548. The group’s Web site is http://tennessee.sierraclub.org/cherokee.